Three Subjects Cited for Game Fish Violations in Catahoula Parish

Three Subjects Cited for Game Fish Violations in Catahoula Parish

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents cited three people for alleged fishing violations on April 9 in Catahoula Parish.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division agents cited three people for alleged fishing violations on April 9 in Catahoula Parish.

Agents were patrolling LartoLake when they observed a commercial flat boat with three individuals running an illegal lead net. When agents attempted to make contact, the operator of the vessel refused to stop. After a brief chase, agents were able to stop the vessel and apprehend the three individuals. During the chase, agents witnessed the men offloading illegally taken fish from hoop nets into the water.

Agents arrested David D. Paulk, 67, of Jonesville, and Adam L. Fields, 26, of Jonesville, and booked them into the Catahoula Parish Prison. Agents also cited and released Stephanie L. Carry, 20, of Jonesville.

Agents arrested Paulk and Fields for resisting an officer by flight, use lead nets in other than an overflow area, taking game fish illegally, and intentional concealment by disposing of fish evidence. Agents also charged Paulk with reckless operation of a watercraft and no boat registration numbers. Carry was cited for taking game fish illegally and using lead nets in other than an overflow area.

Resisting an officer by flight brings up to a $500 fine and up to six months in jail.

Reckless operation of a watercraft carries up to a $200 fine and 90 days in jail. Using lead nets in other than an overflow area and taking game fish illegally both bring a $400 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail for each charge. Intentional concealment by disposing of fish brings a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail. No boat registration numbers carries up to a $50 fine and 15 days in jail.